Abstract

In this paper, the rapid fabrication method based on Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Electrochemical deposition is described in detail, and mechanical test results of composite nickel-coated FDM-PLA (PLA – Poly Lactic Acid) parts are presented. Coatings of electrodeposited nickel on FDM prototypes result in increase in Young's modulus, UTS, and Impact strength. Electrodeposited nickel coating has dramatically improved the overall strength and stiffness of FDM parts. Rule of mixture theory was used to predict the stiffness of the developed composites. The predicted values and the physical test results almost matched, although the experimental values were bit lower in comparison.